Willow Grove Homes & Granny Flats featured in Mornington Peninsula Magazine
March 10, 2021Quality Building Continues at Willow Grove Homes
The construction industry is going through one of its toughest periods, with work stopping on hundreds of projects.
Over the past year 85% of tradespeople have increased prices with more than half forced to do so in the past three months. Companies across the world are struggling to find staff and facing problems sourcing and paying for materials due to a worldwide shortage. Spiralling material costs, choked supply chains, fuel and vehicle price hikes, difficulty finding staff and high wages have all combined to destroy the viability of businesses.
With timber prices up by at least 20% and metal prices rising 15% in the past years, workers said raw materials are the major factor pushing up costs. Most are suffering a hangover from that now — labour shortages, cost material increases and material shortages.
It’s created this perfect storm. It’s really hurting the industry at the moment, and no one knows where it’s going to end up.
We’ve been here for 55 years and we’re here to stay!
When it comes to building a granny flat, there’s a lot to think about, plan for, and know. Building a granny flat has never been easier or more affordable than it is now. Willow Grove Homes are a proudly Australian family-owned and operated business, with over 55 years’ experience building customers their dream granny flat and relocatable homes.
This means we have the experience necessary to build according to the current compliances, council regulations and policies on flat, sloping, narrow bushfire prone or difficult blocks of land, so you can make the most of your property. After you choose the right granny flat position, choose the right builder!
Read on for some tips on selecting the right granny flat and relocatable home builder for your needs.
How to find the right home builder?
Choosing a builder to work with is an important decision. You want someone who will do what they say they will, when they say they will, but it can be hard to find that person.
Whether you’re getting a granny flat, portable home or extending your home, it’s important that you choose a builder that is licenced, registered and insured.
You should be wary of builders that either refuse or don’t make it clear upfront that they are legally permitted to be involved in building and construction.
How to check if your builder is legit?
Some builders’ licences or registrations may have simply expired, or some may have had their licences revoked but are still involved in the building industry. Regulators are historically slow at catching these dodgy builders, so you must be one step ahead. As a minimum, your builder should have public liability insurance and domestic building insurance.
When hiring a granny flat builder, it’s important to be sure they have the skills you need. For example, if you’re looking to build a granny flat and you’ve chosen a builder who only has experience in extensions and renovations, they may not be the right choice for your project.
It’s also important to note that builders who have only built residential properties in the past may not necessarily have a good grasp of the complexities and compliances for building granny flats and relocatable homes.
Check portfolio and references
When looking for a builder, you may be tempted to go with the first one you come across or simply go with the builder who offers the lowest bid. However, it’s important that you take your time and choose the right builder for your home. We know that choosing the right builder can be stressful.
That’s why we want to help you get a clear idea of who we are and what we stand for by providing you with some information on our company, our history, and the way we work. If you’re looking for a builder, you’ll want to make sure that they have a portfolio of their previous projects.
If you’re interested in learning more about us or would like to schedule a consultation, just let us know!
Book in for a free consultation with your Willow Grove Homes & Granny Flats specialist now!
How do I contact a granny flat builder in Melbourne?
You can contact Willow Grove Homes & Granny Flats today to discuss any more information or request a quote. To view our constructions up close, visit our beautiful display centres where we’re sure you’ll find the right relocatable home for you.
By investing in the future of your family home, you are also investing in a local, family-run business, helping us continue to operate and employ people in these harsh and difficult times.
Contact us or call on (03) 9799 8500 to talk about your situation or make an appointment.